Welcome to Pleaux: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of France
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Pleaux
Accommodation:
Camping Municipal de Pleaux
Address: Route de Salers, 15220 Pleaux
Phone: +33 (0)4 71 20 69 10
Website: www.pleaux.fr
Description: A budget-friendly campsite with basic amenities such as showers, toilets, and electricity hookups. Tents are available for rent if you don't have your own gear.
Cost: €10 per night per person.
Breakfast:
Boulangerie du Village
Address: Place de l'Église, 15220 Pleaux
Description: Start your day with freshly baked croissants or pain au chocolat paired with coffee from this local bakery.
Cost: Approximately €3.
Morning Activity:
Explore the historic center of Pleaux, including the Church of Saint-Pierre and the old stone houses that reflect the region's architectural heritage.
Lunch:
Le Relais des Saveurs
Address: 3 Rue de la République, 15220 Pleaux
Phone: +33 (0)4 71 20 67 23
Description: Enjoy a hearty meal featuring regional specialties such as aligot (cheesy mashed potatoes) and charcuterie.
Cost: Around €10.
Afternoon Activity:
Visit the nearby Lac de Saint-Etienne-Cantalès, a beautiful artificial lake perfect for walking, picnicking, or renting a paddleboat.
Cost: Free entry boat rental starts at €5 per hour.
Dinner:
Pizzeria Chez Lulu
Address: 5 Avenue de la Libération, 15220 Pleaux
Phone: +33 (0)4 71 20 67 89
Description: Affordable wood-fired pizzas made with fresh ingredients.
Cost: About €8.
Day 2: Discovering Nature and Local Culture
Breakfast:
Grab breakfast at Boulangerie du Village again or bring snacks from the supermarket.
Morning Activity:
Hike the Sentier des Cascades trail near the Truyère Gorges. The path takes you through lush forests and past cascading waterfalls.
Cost: Free.
Lunch:
Picnic by the river using supplies purchased from the local market:
Marché de Pleaux
Location: Place de la Mairie, 15220 Pleaux
Days: Tuesday and Saturday mornings
Cost: Approximately €5 for bread, cheese, fruits, etc.
Afternoon Activity:
Visit the Château de Val, a stunning castle overlooking the Dordogne River. Guided tours provide insights into its rich history.
Address: 15220 Lanobre
Phone: +33 (0)4 71 20 67 56
Website: www.chateau-de-val.com
Cost: €8 per adult.
Dinner:
Crêperie Bretonne
Address: 8 Rue du Pont, 15220 Pleaux
Phone: +33 (0)4 71 20 67 12
Description: Savor savory galettes and sweet crêpes filled with local produce.
Cost: Around €10.
Day 3: Relaxation and Departure
Breakfast:
Enjoy one last pastry at Boulangerie du Village.
Morning Activity:
Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Dordogne River. Bring a book or simply relax while enjoying the serene landscape.
Cost: Free.
Lunch:
Auberge de la Vallée
Address: 12 Rue de la Forge, 15220 Pleaux
Phone: +33 (0)4 71 20 67 45
Description: A cozy inn serving homemade dishes inspired by Auvergne cuisine.
Cost: Approximately €12.
Departure:
Check out from Camping Municipal de Pleaux and head to your next destination.
Additional Tips for a Comfortable Stay
- Car Rental: Renting a car will give you more flexibility to explore surrounding areas. Expect costs around €30–€50 per day depending on the provider.
- Guided Tours: Consider joining guided tours for deeper insights into Pleaux’s history and culture. Prices vary but typically start at €15 per person.
- Souvenirs: Purchase locally made crafts or cheeses from markets to support small businesses.
